Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among University Students [2025]

SeñoritaShawn Mendes & Camila Cabello85rank/position

Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello – Señorita

The hit song Señorita, featuring Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello.

The two are also well known as a couple.

With Camila Cabello’s Latin roots, the track is crafted into a passionate and sexy Latin-style piece.

Of course, it’s not what you’d call a fast-tempo song, but it seems perfect for partner dances.

Alternatively, it could work well as background music during breaks.

Be sure to check it out.

All StarSmash Mouth86rank/position

Smash Mouth – All Star

This is Smash Mouth’s signature song, loved as an anthem for young people thanks to its exhilarating power-pop sound and message-driven lyrics.

In contrast to the upbeat music, the lyrics carry deeper meanings that hint at global warming and social issues, allowing each listener to find their own interpretation.

Released in May 1999 by the San Jose, California–based band, the ambitious track reached No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It was featured in the promotional video for the film Mystery Men and used as the opening song for the animated movie Shrek, continuing to influence pop culture for many years.

Its positive message and dynamic melody make it an ideal BGM for dance performances at school sports days and athletic festivals.

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor87rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

Eye of the Tiger by the American rock band Survivor.

The guitar riff that goes “ja, jaa-ja-ja!” is incredibly striking.

The drums feel great too, and as you listen, your body naturally starts to move.

It’s still used as background music on TV and the like, so if you play it at a school sports day, there will probably be people who think, “I’ve heard this song before,” and get excited.

In particular, since it was the theme song for the movie Rocky III, it might sound especially nostalgic to parents’ generation!

FANCYTwice88rank/position

TWICE “FANCY” M/V

Many middle and high school students love K-pop idols.

K-pop is popular at sports days and athletic festivals too, so it’s perfect as background music.

“FANCY” is a hit by TWICE, one of the most popular K-pop idol groups.

Its fresh vibe makes it suitable for any scene and it’s sure to get everyone excited.

Of course, it’s also great for performing a dance to this song.

Shake It OffTaylor Swift89rank/position

Taylor Swift – Shake It Off

Taylor Swift’s hit song “Shake It Off.” Around this track, Taylor Swift began moving away from her country style and shifting toward pop, which has a larger market.

Every part of the song is wrapped in a bright, upbeat vibe.

Because the melody is simple, it might be a great match for Japanese listeners who tend to find complex melodies challenging.

In any case, it’s an exceptionally cheerful song, so it works well as entrance music or in any scene where you want to raise the energy level.

Pump ItThe Black Eyed Peas90rank/position

The Black Eyed Peas – Pump It (Official Music Video)

This is a signature track by the Black Eyed Peas, notable for its grand sound that samples the surf rock classic “Misirlou.” Its energetic guitar riff, heavy beats, and lyrics that express a full-bodied passion for music blend perfectly, creating an irresistible pull for listeners.

Released in May 2005 as a track on the album Monkey Business, it achieved international success, reaching the top 10 in 13 countries worldwide.

It was also featured on the soundtracks of the films Little Man and Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties, and its overwhelming presence has made it a favorite across various media.

It’s also ideal as background music for school sports days or athletic events, making it a perfect choice to boost participants’ motivation and enhance the sense of unity at the venue.

CloserThe Chainsmokers91rank/position

The Chainsmokers – Closer (Lyric) ft. Halsey

The Chainsmokers’ hit song “Closer,” released in 2016.

If you’ve even dabbled a little in Western pop music, you’ve probably heard it.

The track does a great job of highlighting Halsey’s wistful vocals.

It’s a song that conveys the feelings of both a man and a woman after a breakup.

As the song approaches the end, Halsey’s vocals grow increasingly powerful—be sure to pay attention.

It may not have much of a sports day vibe, but it’s guaranteed to lift your spirits!